Lille
Still known as the "Capital of Flanders", Lille has had an eventful history from the Middle Ages to the French Revolution. You can't run in Lille without taking the classic run in the Citadelle park, but don't forget to take a walk in the rich city centre!
As a garrison town, Lille has had an eventful history since the Middle Ages. Frequently besieged during its history, it belonged successively to the kingdom of France, the Burgundian state, the Holy Roman Empire and the Spanish Netherlands before being definitively attached to the France of Louis XIV. Brutally destroyed by the two world wars of the 20th century during which it was occupied, it has now been rebuilt and is a mixture of military architecture, old medieval town and modern districts. If you like a urban atmosphere, you can run along the main boulevards, which are equipped with wide bicycle paths that are lit up at night. The Citadelle park also welcomes many runners, around its magnificent star-shaped fortifications, built by the famous french architect Vauban.
Lille
... in Numbers !
Routes
Volunteers
14
Routes
62
POIs
Our running routes in
Lille
Discover the Old Town
Wander around Vieux-Lille, the city's old town, and learn more about its many iconic landmarks. The Museum of Fine Arts, the Lille Opera House, the Hospice Comtesse Museum and several other wonderful sights await you!
Specialities from Lille
Lille specialities mostly come from Flanders, especially the tradition of cooking with beer. On this route, you will discover all of the typical dishes of this area. Plan to eat later, because we are going to make your mouth water!
Wazemmes
This route around the Wazemmes district will lead you to the Natural History Museum, the Palais des Beaux-Arts, the Wazemmes Halls, and other superb monuments in the city. Pop your earphones in!
The centre of Lille #3
Get your fill of knowledge with this route through the heart of this northern city! You will be told about the Palais des Beaux-Arts, the Natural History Museum, and the Insitut Pasteur Museum.
The centre and Euralille
With this urban route you will discover a part of the city centre as well as the modern Euralille district. Get ready to see the City Hall and its belfry, the Porte de Paris, the Noble Tour, and many other marvels!
Past, Present, and Future
This Smart Run will guide you through both the city's historic and modern districts. While running through the Euralille area, check out Lille Cathedral, the Old Stock Exchange, as well as the City Hall.
Run with Humanity & Inclusion
Let Humanity & Inclusion guide you around the city. This international non-governmental relief organisation helps those in need in more than 60 countries. You will learn about their efforts all while staying motivated. See you at the finish line in 4 kilometers!
Citadel
Head out and discover one of the most beautiful monuments of Lille. Surrounded by the Deûle river, the citadel is one of the most beautiful in France. You surely won't be disappointed!
Le Vieux-Lille #2
Vieux-Lille is intrinsically linked with history! Discover in particular Napoleon bridge, the Place aux Oignons, the Hospice Comtesse Museum, and the house where Charles de Gaulle was born.
Lille centre #2
It is time for some sport and culture and in the centre of Lille! The Palais des Beaux-Arts, Saint Maurice Church, the City Hall, and other monuments are waiting to reveal their secrets.
From the Centre to Wazemmes
This longer route will take you on a voyage of discovery to all Lille's must-see spots, from the city centre to the Wazemmes district, including the Grand’Place, the Palais Rihour, the Lille Citadel, the Saint-Pierre-Saint-Paul Church and the Halles de Wazemmes.
Run around the citadel
The citadel is the ideal place to run in the peace and quiet! Do a loop around this beautiful monument, and breathe fresh air...
The centre and Wazemmes
Cross the centre of Lille and the Wazemmes district. You will discover some real gems, such as the Rameau Palace, Saint Michael's Church, and even Saint-Sauveur station.
The old town
The old town is naturally an unmissable district. Head out and explore the monuments, the Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille cathedral to the Napoleon bridge, passing by the port de Gand, and the house where Charles de Gaulle was born. Enjoy!